The word cholesterol is often associated with negative health implications, but it is actually important to proper body function. Too much cholesterol, however, can accumulate on the arterial walls and lead to the formation of gallstones, which are hard deposits in the gallbladder.
Formation
The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid. Bile is composed of water, cholesterol, bile salts, fats, proteins and bilirubin and is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. When too much cholesterol is in the body, it travels into the bile, where it hardens and forms gallstones. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, 80 percent of gallstones are formed as a result of excess cholesterol. Cholesterol gallstones are usually yellowish-green in color and can range from microscopic to a couple of inches in diameter.
Symptoms
Small gallstones that float freely in the gallbladder do not usually cause any symptoms. When a cholesterol gallstone grows in size, it can block the normal flow of bile, which results in pain. The pain is usually located in the upper right side or center of the abdomen, according to MayoClinic.com. Pain may also develop between the shoulder blades and in the shoulder. If more severe symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, fever, chills or jaundice, develop, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Treatment
According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, cholesterol gallstones that do not cause symptoms do not require treatment. Two treatment options for cholesterol gallstones that cause symptoms are available. The most common treatment is removal of the gallbladder. This can be done with open surgery or the use of a laparoscope. Those who are unable to undergo surgery may benefit from the use of medications to dissolve gallstones. According to MayoClinic.com, this treatment option may take months or years, however, to completely dissolve the stones.
Complications
If left untreated, gallstones can lead to various complications. The gallbladder can become inflamed if the cholesterol gallstone becomes trapped in the neck of the gallbladder. This condition is referred to as cholecystitis. Gallstones may also block the bile duct or pancreatic duct, which blocks bile and pancreatic juices and can cause infections and inflammation.
Prevention
The possibility of the formation of cholesterol gallstones can be reduced by taking steps to reduce cholesterol in the blood. Exercising for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week can help reduce cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of gallstones. Losing weight and maintaining that healthy weight can also help reduce the risk of developing gallstones. MayoClinic.com notes that losing weight too quickly can actually cause gallstones, however, so it is important to aim to lose only 1 to 2 lbs. per week.
